Shopaholic Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈʃoʊpəˈhɔːlɪk/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A person who compulsively and excessively buys and collects goods and merchandise, often resulting in financial and emotional difficulties.

Examples

• Her husband was worried about her shopaholic tendencies and encouraged her to seek help.
• The shopper was known for her extreme shopaholic behavior, buying designer clothes and jewelry without a second thought.

Synonyms

• Boutique Buyer
• Compulsive Consumer

Antonyms

• Austere
• Frugal

Additional Information

Shopaholics often experience feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety after indulging in their compulsive buying behaviors. They may also experience financial difficulties, strained relationships, and decreased self-esteem as a result of their excessive spending habits. Treatment options for shopaholics typically involve therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes to help individuals develop healthier spending habits and manage their financial resources more effectively.

Some shopaholics may use shopping as a coping mechanism for emotional or psychological issues, such as depression, anxiety, or stress. Others may use it as a means of social validation or as a way to assert their independence.

Etymology

The term “shopaholic” is believed to have originated in the 1970s, derived from the words “shop” and “alcoholic.” It is often used to describe individuals who exhibit compulsive and excessive buying behaviors.

Usage Notes

When using the term “shopaholic,” it is important to consider the context in which it is being used. Avoid using the term in a derogatory or judgmental manner, as it can be stigmatizing and dismissive of the individual’s struggles with compulsive buying behaviors.

Cultural References

• The TV show “Sex and the City” features a character, Carrie Bradshaw, who is often portrayed as a shopaholic.
• The movie “Confessions of a Shopaholic” is based on the novel by Sophie Kinsella and follows the story of a young woman who is a shopaholic.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “Shop till you drop”
• “Retail therapy”

Related Words or Phrases

• Shoplifting
• Bargain hunter

Collocations

• “Shopaholic tendencies”
• “Shopaholic behavior”

Frequency of Use

The term “shopaholic” is commonly used in contemporary language, particularly in the context of consumer culture and finance.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings of the term “shopaholic” include “shopoholic,” “shopaholick,” and “shopaholac.”